Honabach House

Honabach House: A Harmonious Blend of Modern Design and Natural Serenity in Brookhaven

Situated on a tranquil residential street in Brookhaven, Georgia, the Honabach House is a striking example of how thoughtful design can balance modern living with a deep connection to its natural surroundings. Designed by Philip Babb Architect, this 4,250-square-foot residence was crafted for a young professional couple, their teenage daughter, and two golden retrievers, all of whom desired a home that integrates seamlessly with its wooded site while maintaining the neighborhood's original scale.

Brookhaven has experienced significant transformation in recent years, with many of the modest one-story ranch homes being replaced by larger two-story houses. Unfortunately, many of these newer constructions overlook the importance of site context and scale. The Honabach House was conceived with a different approach, prioritizing a design that respects the neighborhood's established character while making the most of its unique 1 1/4-acre site, which slopes gently from the street to a serene creek at the rear.

The home’s layout is cleverly designed to work with the natural topography. The upper level, which aligns with the street, houses the bedrooms, while the lower level opens up to expansive outdoor entertainment areas. This intentional arrangement not only enhances the home’s connection to its site but also provides a sense of privacy and tranquility.

Upon entering the Honabach House, visitors are greeted by a “see-through” entry foyer that offers unobstructed views from the street through to the wooded landscape beyond. The upper level is organized into two parallel forms that run perpendicular to the street, with the guest room and office at the front and the main and daughter’s bedrooms overlooking the wooded rear of the property. The staggered positioning of these bedroom forms not only creates a distinct first-floor entry but also establishes a two-sided courtyard at the back of the house.

An open staircase descends from the upper-level entry to the expansive terrace level, where floor-to-ceiling windows flood the entertainment spaces with natural light and offer stunning views of the private courtyard and pool. A large screened-in living and dining area adjacent to the courtyard provides a protected space for year-round outdoor enjoyment, further blurring the lines between indoors and out.

Sustainability was a key consideration in the design and construction of the Honabach House. The home features a thermally modified spruce siding rainscreen system over 1 1/2” thick R-6 insulated sheathing with an integral vapor barrier, offering superior decay protection without the use of harmful chemicals. The exterior framing is constructed with 6” R-20 open-cell spray foam insulation, while the roofs are insulated with R-38 closed-cell spray foam, ensuring a tight and energy-efficient building envelope.

The home’s energy performance is further enhanced by an air infiltration test requirement achieving an impressive ACH50 rating of less than 1.0. All windows and doors are equipped with LoE 366 insulated glazing, and the home’s HVAC system utilizes all-electric variable speed heat pumps and a Whole House Energy Recovery Ventilation System (ERV). LED lighting throughout the home adds another layer of energy efficiency.

The interior design by Scott Laslie Design complements the home’s architectural vision, creating spaces that are both sophisticated and comfortable. The landscape, designed by Ruho Design Group, enhances the natural beauty of the site, with thoughtful plantings that frame the home and create serene outdoor living areas. Principle Builders Group served as the general contractor, bringing the design to life with precision and care.

The Honabach House stands as a testament to how modern design can coexist with natural beauty and community context. By respecting the site’s natural topography, integrating sustainable features, and maintaining a harmonious scale, this home offers a peaceful retreat in one of Brookhaven’s most desirable neighborhoods. For those seeking a home that balances luxury with sustainability and a deep connection to nature, the Honabach House is a true standout.